FWP News: FWP TO HOST KICK-OFF EVENT IN HELENA FOR YOUTH PHEASANT, WATERFOWL HUNTS
By angelamontana

Posted: September 15, 2022

HELENA – In partnership with the Headwaters Chapter of Pheasants Forever, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks will host a kick-off event in Helena next week in advance of the state’s youth pheasant and waterfowl hunt.

The Region 3 kick-off event will be at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 20, at FWP’s Montana WILD Education Center, 2668 Broadwater Ave., in Helena. This event will give interested hunters and their families an introduction to pheasant and waterfowl hunting, and opportunities to connect with mentors and win prizes.

Montana’s youth pheasant and waterfowl hunt is Sept. 24 and 25. The two-day hunt is open to:

  • Legally licensed 12- to 15-year-olds who have completed hunter education and who are accompanied by a non-hunting adult at least 18 years of age
  • Properly certified and legally licensed apprentice hunters 10 to 15 years of age, who are accompanied by a non-hunting adult “mentor” at least 21 years of age

All regulations apply. Shooting hours during the youth waterfowl hunt are different at Canyon Ferry Wildlife Management Area—they will be 30 minutes before sunrise to noon on Sept. 24 and 25 for waterfowl hunters. Low water levels in the ponds at Canyon Ferry WMA may restrict boat access.

During the week prior to the youth weekend, FWP will release pheasants on several wildlife management areas around the state. Most of the pheasants were raised by Montana Correctional Enterprises in Deer Lodge under a cooperative agreement with FWP. The purpose of the pheasant release program is to give youth hunters an opportunity to experience hunting success, encouraging their future participation.

Other kick-off events are happening throughout the state. Visit FWP’s website for more information.

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